The Oakland University (OU) School of Engineering is assembling a collaboration with the University of Michigan (UM), Fraunhofer USA, Wayne State, and other universities, as well as for-profit companies engaged in the manufacture of PV materials/cells/panels, or in the process of developing, demonstrating, and commercializing innovative PV manufacturing technologies. Although the focus of efforts will be on thin film PV technologies, all types of PV materials, cells, modules, and system integration related to manufacturing will be considered for funding of sub-award projects. In addition, this PV initiative will also provide some portion of its resources to support education and training to support PV manufacturing and the entire industry. It is anticipated that some curricula development and workforce training will be undertaken to maximize job creation throughout the PV industry.

A concept paper was submitted to the DOE preliminary solicitation for a “PV Manufacturing Initiative” (PVMI) and received a favorable response; a grant proposal will be written by an OU/UM/Fraunhofer team for submission by October 6.

The OU CERC proposes the following collaborative effort to support and enhance the significant amount of PV manufacturing and innovation already underway in the State of Michigan. The basic concept is to create a structure wherein industry-expressed needs for solutions in the PV manufacturing sector will be funded as University R&D sub-awards under a five to ten year plan. This proposal will apply for approximately $3.0M / year grant from the Department of Energy for five years.